Feeling Cold adn Tired All the Time? It Could Be Your Thyroid
If you’ve been feeling unusually cold, tired, or sluggish, you might blame it on the winter chill or a busy schedule. But what if these symptoms persist even when you’re warm and well-rested? According to experts, this could be a sign of an underactive thyroid, a condition that often goes unnoticed for years.
Ashley O’Dubhain, a Dublin-based pharmacist known as @ashthepharmacist on TikTok, highlights that hypothyroidism—a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones—is ten times more common in women than in men. ”it has many similar symptoms to many other conditions, so it’s essential to get your GP to measure your TSH levels,” he explains. “The good news is, it’s a very manageable condition wiht a simple medication.”
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of an underactive thyroid can be subtle and develop slowly, making them easy to overlook. Common signs include:
- Persistent tiredness
- Unexplained weight gain
- Feelings of depression
these symptoms, as noted by the NHS, often mimic other conditions, which is why many people don’t realize they have a thyroid issue until years later.
How Is It Treated?
The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is a daily medication called levothyroxine, which helps restore hormone levels to a healthy range. Ashley emphasizes that “most people” take this tablet, and while it’s effective, it may take some time to find the correct dosage. Regular blood tests are typically required initially to fine-tune the treatment.
Along with medication, certain dietary choices can support thyroid health. Foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc are particularly beneficial. For example:
- Seaweed and fish (iodine)
- Brazil nuts (selenium)
- Poultry and beef (zinc)
However, Ashley cautions that these dietary changes should complement, not replace, prescribed medication.
What Causes hypothyroidism?
There’s no way to prevent an underactive thyroid, as most cases are caused by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland or by damage to the thyroid itself. Once diagnosed, treatment is usually lifelong, but with proper management, individuals can lead healthy, symptom-free lives.
key Takeaways
Here’s a fast summary of what you need to know about hypothyroidism:
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Common Symptoms | Tiredness,weight gain,depression |
| Primary Treatment | Levothyroxine (daily medication) |
| Dietary Support | Iodine (seaweed,fish),selenium (Brazil nuts),zinc (poultry,beef) |
| Lifelong Management | Regular blood tests and medication adjustments may be necessary |
If you’ve been feeling off and suspect your thyroid might be to blame,don’t wait. Consult your GP and get your TSH levels checked. As Ashley puts it, “It’s a very manageable condition”—so take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.
For more details on thyroid health, visit the NHS website or check out Ashley’s insights on TikTok.
Feeling cold and Tired All the Time? Expert Insights on Thyroid Health
If you’ve been feeling unusually cold, tired, or sluggish, it might be more than just the winter blues or a hectic lifestyle. These persistent symptoms could signal an underactive thyroid, a condition that often goes undiagnosed for years.To shed light on this topic, we sat down with dr. Fiona O’Connor, a leading endocrinologist specializing in thyroid health, to discuss the symptoms, treatment, and management of hypothyroidism.
Understanding Hypothyroidism: What Are the key Symptoms?
senior Editor: Dr. O’Connor, many people experience fatigue or weight gain but don’t promptly connect these symptoms to their thyroid. What are the most common signs of an underactive thyroid?
Dr. Fiona O’Connor: Great question.The symptoms of hypothyroidism can be subtle and develop gradually, which is why they’re often overlooked. the most common signs include persistent tiredness, unexplained weight gain, and feelings of depression. Some people also experience sensitivity to cold, dry skin, and muscle weakness. Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional and get your TSH levels checked if you suspect a thyroid issue.
How Is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed and Treated?
Senior Editor: Once someone is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, what does treatment typically involve?
Dr. Fiona O’Connor: The primary treatment is a daily medication called levothyroxine, which replaces the hormones your thyroid isn’t producing enough of. It’s a highly effective treatment, but finding the right dosage can take some time. Initially, patients may need regular blood tests to monitor their hormone levels and adjust the medication as needed. It’s also critically important to note that while dietary changes can support thyroid health,they should never replace prescribed medication.
Can Diet Play a Role in Managing Thyroid Health?
Senior Editor: Speaking of diet, are ther specific foods that can help support thyroid function?
Dr. Fiona O’Connor: Absolutely. Certain nutrients are essential for thyroid health, including iodine, selenium, and zinc. Foods like seaweed and fish are excellent sources of iodine, while Brazil nuts are rich in selenium. Poultry and beef provide zinc, which also supports immune function.Though, it’s critically important to approach dietary changes as a complement to medical treatment, not a substitute.
What Causes Hypothyroidism, and Can It Be Prevented?
Senior Editor: Many people wonder if hypothyroidism can be prevented. What are the main causes of this condition?
Dr. Fiona O’Connor: Regrettably, there’s no way to prevent hypothyroidism in most cases. The condition is often caused by an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis,where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes include damage to the thyroid from surgery or radiation therapy. Once diagnosed, treatment is usually lifelong, but with proper management, individuals can lead healthy, symptom-free lives.
Key Takeaways for Thyroid Health
Senior Editor: To wrap up, what are the most important things people should know about managing hypothyroidism?
dr. Fiona O’Connor: The key takeaway is that hypothyroidism is a very manageable condition.If you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or depression, don’t hesitate to consult your GP and get your TSH levels checked. With the right medication and regular monitoring, you can regain your energy and overall well-being. Additionally,incorporating thyroid-supportive foods into your diet can provide extra support,but always prioritize your prescribed treatment plan.
For more data on thyroid health, visit the NHS website or follow Ashley O’Dubhain’s insights on TikTok.